I need education on why to choose a 32-bit system, or a 64-bit? (Windows 7)

[xboxist]

I don't keep up that well with general computer knowledge. I know enough to research, buy and build my own system every 3-4 years. But I don't know a thing about why there are 32-bit and 64-bit systems, and how to know which one to choose. I went to buy a Windows 7 OEM cd today and realized I have no idea which one to get (32 or 64 bit).

Can anyone shed any insight on this? I don't want to take too much of anyone's time.

 

[theevilsharpie]

32-bit systems are starting to hit the 4GB memory limit. 64-bit systems were created to get around that limit.

If you're buying a new system, get a 64-bit OS.

If you want something more detailed, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/64-bit

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[dguy6789]

64 bit means you can have a PC with over 4GB of ram. There are some other benefits but they aren't really seen by most programs or users. The ram thing is the main reason. The only reason to use 32 bit today is if you have a program you must use that you know for a fact absolutely does not work with 64 bit.

Edit: I was too slow

 

[xboxist]

Ok, so it's mainly for memory limitations, got it.

But then why even offer a 32-bit version of Windows 7? Who is 32-bit Windows marketed towards, and why can't those people just use the 64-bit version instead? Can you only use 64-bit Windows with a minimum of 4GB RAM or something, and people with < 4GB need to use 32-bit?

EDIT: posted late, all makes sense now. Thank you guys much!

 

[KIAman]

Ok, so it's mainly for memory limitations, got it.

But then why even offer a 32-bit version of Windows 7? Who is 32-bit Windows marketed towards, and why can't those people just use the 64-bit version instead? Can you only use 64-bit Windows with a minimum of 4GB RAM or something, and people with < 4GB need to use 32-bit?

Because 32bit was came first and people are slow to upgrade.

 

[theevilsharpie]

There are still some 32-bit CPUs (mainly low-power CPUs like Atom) sold today, and there's plenty of slightly older computer equipment that's limited to a 32-bit operating system.

A 64-bit OS can run on any 64-bit platform that meets the OS's minimum requirements, but 64-bit binaries will take up a bit more memory.

 

[M0RPH]

Ok, so it's mainly for memory limitations, got it.

But then why even offer a 32-bit version of Windows 7? Who is 32-bit Windows marketed towards, and why can't those people just use the 64-bit version instead? Can you only use 64-bit Windows with a minimum of 4GB RAM or something, and people with < 4GB need to use 32-bit?

Because if you have 3GB ram and never plan on adding more in that computer, a 32-bit OS is a good choice and will have less compatibility issues. Despite what people say here, there are still software and drivers out there that have trouble with 64-bit OS's.

Also netbooks, for example, are typically going to have 1-2GB ram and are not going to be upgraded beyond that. A 32-bit OS is a better choice there.